Stampede at Kumbh Mela in Uttar Pradesh: Several Feared Dead
Prayagraj, India – A stampede broke out at the ongoing Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, leading to fears of multiple casualties.
According to Indian media reports, at least 10 people have died in the incident that occurred last night. A doctor from Prayagraj City, speaking anonymously to the news agency AFP, claimed that 15 people had lost their lives.
Meanwhile, the Indian news outlet Dainik Bhaskar reported 14 deaths and over 50 people injured. The report mentioned that 14 bodies had already been sent for post-mortem at Swaroop Rani Hospital.
There are different reports on the number of casualties, but the government has not yet released an official statement.
Amrit Snan Temporarily Halted
Following the incident, the Amrit Snan was temporarily suspended.
The Mahakumbh Mela, which started on January 13, has already witnessed around 150 million people bathing in the Ganges River. On Wednesday , an estimated 100 million devotees were expected to participate in the ritual at the Kumbh Mela.
However, on Tuesday night, a sudden stampede occurred at the Sangam area in Prayagraj, where a large crowd crushed several people to death. As panic spread, local authorities removed barricades to clear the roads and manage the situation.
Prime Minister Modi and CM Adityanath Respond
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi contacted Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to get updates on the incident.
Following this, CM Yogi Adityanath urged devotees not to rush towards the Sangam area and instead take their holy dip at nearby riverbanks. He also requested people to follow the administration’s instructions and avoid believing in rumors.
